Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum

A grand structure paying homage to the father of the legend Ho Chi Minh, this entire place is very well maintained and one should definitely visit the Mausoleum in the trip of Hanoi. They have a change of guards ceremony as well (don't know the frequency), but it's also very interesting to watch. This whole area comes under an enclosure where there is a presidential house there as well and hence the security remains very vigilant there.

It is a very peaceful and beautiful place, be aware, there's no shade if you are going in the middle of the day, it will get very hot, also, be aware that the Mausoleum as well the museum has visiting hours (to go inside) for example Mondays are closed. You can go to the one pillar pagoda while you're here, also make sure you have a T-shirt, or long sleeve attire...

When I booked a cruise ship to Vietnam, including Hanoi, I knew the number one place in Hanoi that I wanted to see was Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum. I get a cruise tour on the cruise ship. I am making sure Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is included. The trip to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is not disappointing at all. I learned much more information about Ho Chi Minh. The area is so beautiful and relaxing. I enjoyed every single minute when I was there.

An architecture work that preserves memories and worships President Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi people often come here to salute the Viet Nam's Flag and exercise. There are many other beautiful and nostalgic architectural works on campus that should be visited. You should check the mausoleum opening schedule to be able to visit the President Ho Chi Minh on website. Avoid going on holidays September 2nd and May 19th because it is very crowded and you can wait for hours to enter.

Do arrive as early as you can as it gets very crowded with students and locals. You will need to go through screening like in the airport security. You will have to surrender water bottles or any water containers. You will have to surrender your camera just before the mausoleum and bags at the entrance but allow you to bring in your cell phone. The security will remind you not to use your cell. You will form in 2 lines and need to be quiet when going into the mausoleum. It's takes less than 3 mins inside, and you are out. After existing, follow the signage to collect your camera just behind the mausoleum and your bags at the same entrance you enter. The mausoleum closed at 11 am. Not sure if it's open in the afternoon

Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum is undoubtedly a must-visit destination in Hanoi. Situated in a grand parade square, the mausoleum offers a solemn tribute to the revered leader of Vietnam. One of the highlights of the experience is witnessing the changing of the guard march, a ceremonial display open for everyone to observe. However, during my visit in 2023, access to Ho Chi Minh's preserved body was not possible due to maintenance. Despite this temporary restriction, the mausoleum still stands as a symbol of reverence and national pride, inviting visitors to pay their respects and learn about the life and legacy of this esteemed leader.

After entering you follow the path to the museum, foreigners pay 40k vnd per person, Vietnamese people enter without being charged which is a good thing 😄😄 u will see many belongings of HO CHI MINH his clothes, office, tools and books he used when he was alive, very interesting way of life, he loved children and his family, ha had a great way of life following great principles. He was a man of power and gained people’s hearts and respect. The museum closes at 16.30 😄

A must do experience but very crowded on a Saturday morning. Hats, sunglasses, cameras, and cell phones may not be worn or used inside. Luckily, our tour guide had some connections to get us in the VIP line which only took 30 minutes, rather than 90 minutes.